I apologize for the not-so-funny headline. However, I need to point out that the Jared Hughes addition by the New York Mets on Tuesday night has the potential to pay dividends in a big way in what is shaping up to be an odd season.
The New York Mets’ bullpen is already a strength, as incredible as it may sound. Edwin Diaz and Jeurys Familia could be poised for rebound seasons, and if you want sure things, you have Seth Lugo, Justin Wilson and Brad Brach. Robert Gsellman and Dellin Betances (who, if healthy, could be the best relief arm in the team) complete an impressive group.
However, there is not such a thing as too much depth, and Hughes signing could be more than just that. The deal, per MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo, is worth a prorated $700,000, or about $260,000, so the righty isn’t expensive at all.
Yes, he is on the wrong side of 30 (he will turn 35 during the season) but the Mets are getting quality here. He has a 2.88 career ERA in 524 games and 519.0 innings, a fantastic arm that puts him among the most consistent relievers of the circuit.
The Mets could have a key bullpen contributor in Hughes
Hughes had a somewhat down year in 2019, pitching to a 4.04 ERA and a 5.29 FIP in 71 1/3 frames, but that has been about his worst performance since 2013, when he had a 4.78 ERA. Look at his yearly ERA marks since that season:
2014: 1.96
2015: 2.28
2016: 3.03
2017: 3.02
2018: 1.94
2019: 4.04
Hughes signed with the Houston Astros in the spring but requested to be released after the COVID-19 caused the shutdown in the industry. If he is healthy and pitches up to his skills, he will surely have a spot in the New York Mets’ middle relief in 2020.
He will be an asset for manager Luis Rojas, thanks in large part due to his ability to keep the ball on the ground: he has a career 61.5 GB percentage, which helps him somewhat offset his lack of Ks (6.07 K/9.)